Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, Thursday, launched a campaign for the elimination of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis in Asaba, Delta state.
The initiative tagged: ‘Free to Shine Campaign,’ is part of an advocacy programme led by the African Union, the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and global partners.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Mrs Tinubu stated the importance of advocacy in expanding access to HIV testing services, ensuring comprehensive counseling, treatment, and care for individuals who test positive.
She called for deeper engagement with traditional and faith-based institutions to address cultural and religious influences on HIV prevention.
“To complement the Free to Shine Campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis by 2030,” she said.
The first lady stated that the campaign will cover all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
The initiative was first launched in Kwara for the North Central Zone on 30 January 2025, followed by Kaduna for the North West Zone on 25 February 2025.
“Today, we are flagging off the campaign in Delta state for the South-south Zone. By the grace of God, the next zone to benefit will be the North-east, and Taraba state will be the host.
Highlighting the urgency of the campaign, she referenced data from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which revealed that in 2024, over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults were living with HIV.
Mrs Tinubu expressed concern that many infants born to HIV-positive mothers were not tested early due to a lack of awareness. (Premium Times)